Lippi: Juventus has no rivals in Italy

The 65-year-old says the Old Lady were runaway champions this season, while Gianluigi Buffon says "failure was not an option" for the club.

Marcello Lippi has claimed that Juventus "have no rivals" in Seri

e A following the club's successful title defense.

The Bianconeri wrapped up their second straight Scudetto with three matches to spare, having moved 14 points clear of nearest challenger Napoli thanks to a 1-0 victory over Palermo on Sunday, and the former coach believes the side has blown away the competition.

"I want to congratulate everyone at Juventus. This Scudetto is proof that Juve are constantly growing. Of course, the compliments are extended to the club's board," the Guangzhou Evergrande boss told TMW.

"This team have no rivals in Italy, they are the strongest and also did well in Europe. The most important player of the season? Other than the usual suspects, I liked Barzagli the most so I pick him."

Meanwhile, club captain Gianluigi Buffon was adamant his side was obliged to retain the crown this season.

"When you have a duty to win, failure is not an option. We were really good today," the goalkeeper told reporters after the match. "This is a Scudetto victory that I liked particularly because we played as a group from day one and overcame our rivals at the most crucial moments.

"Subsequently, we were also able to secure the title. [Coach Antonio] Conte? He knows what the future holds, I don't have too many doubts about him."